7 reasons why executive searches fail

By James Parr

03/12/2001|Canadian HR Reporter|Last Updated: 04/08/2003

In recruitment, there are few greater disappointments — to all parties involved — than when an executive search assignment fails. When the right candidate is not found, a continuing vacuum in a key position can have a serious impact on an organization’s operations. The candidate(s) who came close walk away bitter and disillusioned.

And the professional recruiter can only feel a sense of personal disappointment that efforts have come to naught. (It doesn’t do much for one’s reputation, either.)

There are common reasons — seven to be exact — why executive searches fail. Being able to identify when an executive search project is going off the rails allows HR to avoid pitfalls and take remedial actions when necessary.